Harvin's frustrations with Vikings center around offense, not contract

February 15, 2013 9:58 AM ET

Harvin is entering the final year of his rookie contract. (US Presswire)

The issues between receiver Percy Harvin and the Vikings have been widely mischaracterized, according to a source close to the team. Harvin's frustration is based around the scope of the passing game and not his contract. Harvin's complaints have been about football and not money.

While the Vikings have explored contract options for him -- as is the norm for any top young player entering the final year of his deal -- Harvin's trade requests have been based on the limitations of Minnesota's passing game and not his contract, according to the source, who has knowledge of the Vikings' thinking. Harvin has not complained about his deal to the team and has never threatened to hold out based on his contract. Several reports have misrepresented the nature of Harvin's concerns and what he has conveyed to the team.

The Vikings are weighing their options with Harvin, and the situation could come to a head at the combine next week. Harvin is set to make $2.9 million in 2013, and the team might end up dealing him if a long-term deal is not feasible. Harvin has excelled as a ball carrier and versatile receiver despite the Vikings lacking other options in the passing game and having issues at quarterback for much of his tenure.

Before joining CBS Sports, Jason La Canfora was the Washington Redskins beat writer for The Washington Post for six years and served as NFL Network's insider. The Baltimore native can be seen every Sunday during the season on The NFL Today.